The Canada Lynx, a wild cat found in the forests of North America, is typically recognized for its light grayish-brown fur, which provides excellent camouflage in snowy regions. However, sightings of black-furred Canada Lynxes have been whispered about for years without photographic proof—until 2022, when a groundbreaking video finally captured this elusive creature.
The footage was recorded by Thomas Jung, a Yukon government researcher affiliated with the University of Alberta. While visiting a rural area near Whitehorse, Yukon, Jung spotted the lynx resting in the distance and quickly filmed it using his cellphone. The video shows the animal sitting quietly about 50 meters away, before being startled by a barking dog and retreating into the woods.
This historic sighting was detailed in the journal Mammalia in an article titled “Paint it black: first record of melanism in Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis).” Despite the grainy quality of the video, experts confirmed the animal’s identity as a Canada Lynx, noting its striking black fur with hints of whitish-gray along its body and face.
Canada Lynxes are usually solitary and secretive creatures, known for their seasonal coat changes—from silvery-gray in winter to reddish-brown in summer. The lynx in the video, however, displayed melanism, a rare condition caused by an overproduction of pigment. Scientists are still exploring how such traits affect survival. Jung speculated that a black coat might be a disadvantage for the lynx, as it would make the animal more visible in snowy landscapes, hindering its ability to hunt.
This rare sighting has thrilled wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike, as it offers a glimpse into the diversity of Canada Lynxes and raises questions about the role of melanism in their evolution. It’s amazing to think that such a unique animal was caught on camera. What’s your take on this extraordinary discovery? Let us know in the comments!
